INDUSTRIAL AUTOMATION

Programmable Logic Control (PLC)

The PLC has grown in capability to become the primary means of machine control in Industrial Automation. A wide range of PLCs are available, from small, cost effective units for simple control applications, to high capability PLCs capable of sophisticated control and network communications.

Hover over the blocks to view recommended products for this solution:

Analog inputs provide the Controller with a value. The resolution of the value is often an important consideration, usually expressed in bits (8-bit, 16-bit, etc.). Click for more information

Analog outputs provide devices with a signal based on a value from the Controller. The resolution of the value is often important, usually expressed in bits (8-bit, 16-bit, etc.).Click for more information

A variety of sensors, switches, and other Input devices detect movement, light, temperature, and many other variables. There are two broad categories of Input Devices: discrete (or digital), and analog.Click for more information

Contactors, motor starters, valves, and other Output devices are used to turn on/off motors, lights, heating elements, and other equipment. Both Discrete and Analog Output devices are available. Click for more information

Refer to manufacturer documents to choose a PLC family, CPU, and additional components, based on I/O and advanced capabilities required.Click for more information

Signal Conditioners are often required with Analog I/O, to convert between the signal level of the Controller I/O and the signal level of the Devices they are connected to. Click for more information

Most PLCs have software available for entering the program in the PLC, and monitoring debugging the program operation and I/O status. Click for more information